When Tesla showed off the Cybercab at last year’s We, Robot event, something strange caught the eye: a laser-like light pattern projected from the vehicle. Most people ignored it. But was it just for show — or something far more advanced?
We went down the rabbit hole and discovered something that might explain it: a fascinating technology called Structured Light — and if Tesla is using it, this could be another game-changer in their approach to autonomy.
What Exactly Did We See?
During the Cybercab’s unveiling, a light pattern — almost holographic in nature — was projected from the vehicle. It looked cool, but Tesla didn’t explain what it was.
At first glance, it seemed like part of the presentation flair. But what if it wasn’t? What if this light wasn’t just for us… but for the car?
Structured Light 101: Tech That Sees in 3D
Structured Light is a technology that projects a known light pattern (like grids, lines, or dots) onto a surface. Then, a camera watches how that pattern changes when it hits objects.
By measuring the distortions in the pattern, the system can build a highly detailed 3D map of the area — useful for spotting things like curbs, tight parking spaces, or objects near the ground.
It’s fast, accurate, and works well at short distances, making it perfect for things like:
- Navigating tight city corners
- Helping passengers approach the vehicle safely
- Spotting low obstacles that cameras might miss
Why Not Use LiDAR Then?
Great question. While both LiDAR and Structured Light involve projecting light, they’re very different technologies.
- LiDAR uses laser pulses to measure distance — Elon Musk has famously called it a “crutch.”
- Structured Light doesn’t rely on time-of-flight measurements. Instead, it’s more like an active 3D camera system.
It’s faster and could be cheaper to implement than LiDAR, especially if Tesla builds it into the Cybercab’s lighting system.
Could Tesla Really Be Using This?
Maybe. Maybe not.
But it fits Tesla’s approach: do more with fewer sensors, stay cost-effective, and use vision-based tech — just like humans do.
Adding structured light could help Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems work even better in tricky, close-range situations — all without adopting external sensors like spinning LiDAR domes.
Other Cool Uses Tesla Might Have in Mind
Knowing Tesla, this system might not only be about safety and autonomy. Here are other ways the Cybercab could use this projection system:
1. Visual Communication
- Project arrows or signals onto the road to show pedestrians when it’s safe to cross
- Display turn signals or stops directly on the pavement
2. Passenger Guidance
- Light up a welcome mat when the Cybercab arrives
- Highlight doors or steps for new passengers
- Show passenger names or destinations
3. Entertainment and Light Shows
- Let’s not forget — Tesla is known for adding fun to functionality.
- Could this be the next step in Tesla’s epic holiday light shows?
So… Is Tesla Using Structured Light?
We don’t have confirmation yet. But the tech fits Tesla’s philosophy: do more with fewer parts, stay camera-first, and make even the smallest detail work harder.
Whether it’s for sensing, communication, or simply to wow us, one thing is clear: the Cybercab may be hiding a lot more under the surface than we thought.
In conclusion, Tesla has never been afraid to blur the line between practicality and creativity. Whether this strange light projection is about smarter autonomy, passenger interaction, or just cool tech we haven’t seen before, it reminds us that Tesla doesn’t just build cars — it builds experiences.
And with the Cybercab just months away from its first rollout, we may find out sooner than later.
What do you think?
Is Tesla secretly using Structured Light on the Cybercab?
Would you want your car to project lights or signals for pedestrians?
Drop your thoughts in the comments and tag a Tesla fan who needs to see this theory.